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Review
. 2016 Dec 5;5(12):113.
doi: 10.3390/jcm5120113.

Diaphragm Dysfunction: Diagnostic Approaches and Management Strategies

Bruno-Pierre Dubé  1 , Martin Dres  2
Affiliations
Review

Diaphragm Dysfunction: Diagnostic Approaches and Management Strategies

Bruno-Pierre Dubé et al. J Clin Med. .

Abstract

The diaphragm is the main inspiratory muscle, and its dysfunction can lead to significant adverse clinical consequences. The aim of this review is to provide clinicians with an overview of the main causes of uni- and bi-lateral diaphragm dysfunction, explore the clinical and physiological consequences of the disease on lung function, exercise physiology and sleep and review the available diagnostic tools used in the evaluation of diaphragm function. A particular emphasis is placed on the clinical significance of diaphragm weakness in the intensive care unit setting and the use of ultrasound to evaluate diaphragmatic action.

Keywords: diaphragm; diaphragm dysfunction; diaphragm ultrasound; phrenic nerve stimulation.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Suggested diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for unilateral diaphragm weakness. CT, computed tomography; VC, vital capacity; MIP, maximal inspiratory pressure; TF, thickening fraction of the diaphragm; PSG, polysomnography; CPAP, continuous positive airway pressure; Pdi,tw, twitch transdiaphragmatic pressure.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Suggested diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for bilateral diaphragm weakness (outside of the intensive care setting). VC, vital capacity; MIP, maximal inspiratory pressure; TF, thickening fraction of the diaphragm; NPPV, non-invasive positive pressure ventilation; PaCO2, arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide; SpO2, peripheral oxygen saturation; Pdi,tw, twitch transdiaphragmatic pressure.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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